A meeting between BHAF, Councillors and Officers is currently being arranged to look at the issues in more detail and we will report back.
As part of our dedication to promote the benefits of bio-diversity on allotments here are two projects you might be interested in.
Wildlife Gardening Survey
Simon Powell and Helen Clarke are long-term allotment-holders on Whitehawk Hill and are looking for land to set up an ecological seed nursery.
Initially they'll focus on growing and supplying seeds of easy-to-grow flowering plants which are especially valuable to pollinators and other insects.
"We know from experience just how crucial these plants are for supporting local pollinator populations in this age of biodiversity loss and we want to do what we can to make it easier for more growers to access and grow this assemblage of humble yet powerful plants on their allotments and gardens."
As part of their market research they've compiled a short, anonymous* survey to find out more about wildlife gardening and seed-buying habits among gardeners: "It would help us massively if you could complete our survey so we can get a better idea of the extent of wildlife gardening among Brighton & Hove's allotment community. We wish you a fruitful growing year ahead."
Click here to take the survey *This survey is anonymous it DOESN'T even record your IP address
Supporting Amphibians on AllotmentsMoulsecoomb Allotment and Horticultural Society (MAHS) are organising a talk by Jenny Hooper from Froglife. Froglife are aiming to restore aquatic wildlife havens and even create wildlife corridors in Moulsecoomb, Coldean and Hollingbury. Allotments will play an important part.
The talk will include amphibian and reptile ID and aquatic habitat management along with wildlife gardening through the seasons.
For more details download the pdf outlining the project.
If you would be interested in attending please email mahscommittee@gmail.com
COMING SOON!
A BHAF report into the value of the benefits that allotments bring to the city.
Mental and physical health benefits, environmental benefits and social benefits all have a value which is mostly not considered when the Council considers the finances around allotments. This report shows that allotments actually save the city hundreds of thousands of pounds every year.
